Who is eligible to apply for the Service Year Alums Awards?

• Any individual who has completed a service year, including AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and YouthBuild positions, is eligible to apply. There are no age restrictions or geographical limitations.

Can I nominate someone for the awards?

• Yes, you can nominate someone for the awards as long as the nominee has agreed to share their story publicly.

What are the criteria for selection?

• The selection criteria includes the focus on bridging divides through service, demonstration of the positive impact of the service year experience, and sharing the narrative with an ethical lens.

What types of stories are you looking for in submissions?

• We are looking for factual narratives that demonstrate how service year experiences have helped individuals bridge divides across various dimensions, such as cultural, generational, or ideological differences. Examples include successfully bringing together diverse communities, promoting dialogue and cooperation, resolving conflicts peacefully, and utilizing arts or technology to bridge divides.

Can I submit a story if I'm currently serving but haven't completed my service term yet?

• If you have completed a full year of service previously, and are now in an additional term of service, you are eligible to apply. Applicants must have completed at least one service year prior to submission.

Is this available to only individuals, or can groups apply?

• Submissions should be from an individual service year alum, though may include actions taken with a group of people.

Is there a word or time limit for submissions?

• Submissions should be in the form of a short story, no longer than 2,000 words, or a video up to five minutes in length.

How will finalists be notified?

• Finalists will be notified via email in August 2024.

What are the benefits of being selected as an awardee?

• Awardees will receive $1,000 each, recognition at a virtual awards ceremony, acknowledgment on social media and the Service Year Alliance website, and other public outlets.

Will there be any additional incentives for submissions?

• Yes, the first 30 eligible submissions will receive a $30 gift card in recognition of the 30th anniversary of AmeriCorps.

Where can I find the application form?

• The application form can be found on the Service Year Alliance website. If you encounter any issues accessing the form, please contact [email protected] for assistance.

Can I submit more than one entry?

• No, each applicant may submit only one entry.

Will my story be shared publicly if I submit it?

• By submitting an entry, you acknowledge that your story, or portions thereof, may be published on the Service Year Alliance website, included in promotional materials, media outlets, and/or reports to demonstrate the impact of service years.

Who can I contact for further inquiries or assistance?

• For further inquiries or assistance, please contact [email protected].